In less than one and one half years, the Scotland County Ministerial Alliance moved from concept to construction to the last phase to complete a plan for a new food Pantry Facility. The project has been a cooperative effort between the Alliance of churches, individuals, organizations and businesses in the Scotland County area.

"We also appreciate the regular donations to the project that come monthly from many who are served by the Food Pantry Ministry," said Jack Sumption, one of the SCMA members.

It was at the Thanksgiving service in 2009 that a vision was shared to replace the house being used for food distribution with a facility large enough to contain a walk in cooler and freezer, storage space, and ample room for food delivery, storage and distribution. The ambition was to put up a building 40' by 60'. The projected cost would be $60,000.

Construction was started when enough funds were raised to purchase the materials and pay for the labor involved to erect the building and pour a floor. It was determined that the project would be a "pay as you go" venture. Electrical work was done. The building was insulated and preparations were made for the installation of a walk-in freezer and cooler. A bathroom should be functioning in the near future. A plumber will be installing water and sewer lines this week.

The final phases of construction are in sight. Some lighting needs to be installed. The office area and emergency food storage area needs to be framed and finished. Trimming out windows and hanging doors are also on the "to do" list.

"These things will be done as funding becomes available," Sumption stated. "We are on budget! Costs to date have come up to approximately $45,000."

He anticipated that the rest of the work can be accomplished with another $15,000.

"The churches, businesses and individuals of the area have been generous in their financial support," Sumption stated. "Your continued contributions will be appreciated to see the Food Pantry completed."

An Auction is being organized for April 9th at 10 a.m. to help the S.C.M.A. raise funds to keep the project moving toward completion before November of 2011. Items donated by individuals and businesses, and freezers no longer needed by the Food Pantry will be auctioned.

Jack Sumption explained that the completion of this project will be celebrated at the SCMA sponsored "Community Thanksgiving service" to be held on Sunday, November 20th 2011 at the SCR-I elementary school gym. Terry Rush, Minister with the Memorial Drive Church of Christ, Tulsa, Oklahoma, was here at Thanksgiving 2009 to help get the project started. He graciously accepted the invitation to return this year to help celebrate the completion of the task.